Saying “Winter is coming” seems to evoke images of white walkers, dragons, and epic battles for Game Of Thrones fans all over the world. Saying that Winter is coming does not, however, evoke images of hanging out on or installing a deck.

When the leaves change color and the air turns crisp, most people believe it’s time to tuck away the outdoor furniture for a long winter’s nap. Attentions turn to bundling up and staying snug throughout winter, barricaded inside with a gallon of hot chocolate.

Other people choose to embrace their outdoor living space and turn it into a winter wonderland,  stocked and equipped with holiday lighting, a fire pit, and fully prepped for cold weather barbeques. Believe it or not, fall is actually the best time of the year to install a deck.

A common misconception about new decks is that there's no sense in building one when the weather starts getting cooler. Yet, crisp weather is actually great for this kind of project. For one thing, with the addition of a fire pit, it’s possible to hold several backyard get togethers before winter completely overtakes the outdoors. For another, a deck built in the fall will be ready and waiting when spring begins to bloom.

Most importantly, with the availability of so many high-quality composites you don’t have to worry about how winter will affect your new deck. It’s only when using natural wood that you might feel it is best to wait until spring.

Because many people assume spring time is the best time, decking contractors will be much less busy in autumn, which means cheaper prices, which is always a plus. It also means they will be able to devote more time to the project, which means it will likely get finished faster.

Also, depending on the complexity of the design, its location, and especially how high off the ground it will be, a deck may not require a permit. Most deck projects during this time of year can take 2 or 3 weeks to complete.

There are 5 advantages to creating your winter wonderland deck in autumn.

1. SHORT WAIT TIME

Spring is the busiest season for building decks. Homeowners break down the barricades and are excited to finally start living outside again. The lead times for deck construction tend to be longer as contractors start to fill up their schedules. Your project will be completed a lot sooner in the fall than in the spring or summer. Plus, once winter passes, your deck will be ready to be used and you can start sprucing it up with spring decorations and enjoy it right away.

2. THE GROUND

Another advantage to fall deck installation is that no one will have to bushwack through a jungle of weeds in a monsoon to get your project started. It will also be less damaging to the greenery that you do enjoy. The cooler weather dries out the landscape making it easier to build a deck in the yard without causing any significant damage to your property. When dealing with the elements, autumn weather is typically much drier, and much easier to work in.

3. LATE SEASON SPECIALS

Whether you are building your own winter wonderland deck or hiring a decking contractor, you can save a boatload of money by building in the fall. Contractors are usually more willing to negotiate on price during their slow season. It's also not uncommon to find sales on building materials during autumn. Take advantage of the “off-season” when builders aren’t receiving as many jobs.

4. AUTUMN WEATHER

Let’s face it, autumn weather is awesome. The cooler, crisp weather is perfect for a fire pit on a deck with friends. The comfortable range of temperatures from fifty to seventy-five allows for ample outdoor time on your new deck. During the spring or summer season the weather can range from hot, sweltering days to stormy, rainy days with little warning. The conditions are also most favorable for building a deck, especially if you are building your own deck. By the time spring arrives, you will be enjoying your new deck without the worries of working in the heat or dealing with building delays due to bad weather.

5. ON YOUR OWN TIME

Instead of rushing around trying to get the deck finished for the next outdoor event, use autumn to plan your deck, select the colors, tweak the design and have fun. Take your time and enjoy the process of putting together the perfect outdoor area.

Most people only envision themselves on their deck during the spring and summer. Tucked away and bundled up in the cooler months, missing out on the winter wonderland they can create on their new all-season deck. With a little planning and timing, just imagine the magic of fire pits, barbeques, and celebrations on your new deck through those beautiful fall and winter nights.